mohd2116

hi guys ,, looking to replace the AC system to upgraded one but there is any suggestions .. the companies that i heard about them are "Vintage Air" and "Classic auto air" ....

corvette 1981 350 engine

please advice !!

Rotonda

Both of the companies you mention specialize in 76 and older Vettes because 78 and newer already have a modern cycling HVAC system. If you wish to 'upgrade' and change to R134a refrigerant, you will need
1) to replace current hoses with barrier hoses (R134a molecules are smaller than the previous R12 and will penetrate your current hose
2) to completely flush out your current system because R134a is not compatible with that used in your current system.
3) change your condenser (in front of your radiator) to a multipath model (I used one from Nostalgic Air - see my write-up on my install into a 77 for details)
4) change your compressor to a Sanden 508 - you will need a new mount (Allen Groves or equivalent - do a search)
5) replace your existing orifice tube with a smaller one (as I recall, a #22 from a Ford)
6) almost certainly clean out the debris from your heater and evaporator box. After 30+ years, debris has a way of collecting there and obstructing airflow through the cores.

If you do all of this, your 'upgraded' stock AC system will freeze you out of your 81.

mohd2116

i really always get the best answers from you dear i appreciate it .. and by the way your idea also for fuel pump to make it internal was the best today i'm working on it and will share the picture later on

Street Rat

I just upgraded to the Classic Auto Air Sanden compressor kit. Fantastic kit and support from the vendor.

It's been in the 100s here lately and my air conditioning is working great!

My car is an '81 also.

Big2Bird

Do you have a part# for this 81 kit? May I ask about how much?

Big2Bird

Do you have a link for this?

Street Rat

.

About $900 but I bought the parallel flow condensor too for about $300.

Here is a link to their catalog...http://www.classicautoair.com/

Big2Bird

Thank you. They are 45 minutes away. I think I'll cruise on up there.

Street Rat

mohd2116

i checked it but i didn't find any kit for corvette in their website , did you change the whole system or only the compressor !!

Rotonda

I have installed a vintage air unit into my 77. Here is a link to my write up.https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c3-tech-performance/2970440-vintage-air-ac-installed-in-a-77-a.html

This contains photos and info on the condenser I used. with a little fabrication, I was able to use the stock condenser mounting system/brackets.

In this write up I indicated that I did not know whether this install would work on 78 and up. Since that time I have seen threads in another forum demonstrating that it is possible, with roughly the same mods I describe. PM me if you want more info.

Rotonda

After clicking on the link previously supplied, look on the right side of the page where it says "FACTORY AIR OPTIONS FOR YOUR CORVETTE". Click compressor upgrade kit. Below this is an addition that adds a multipath condenser.

Street Rat

[QUOTE=Rotonda;1590637621]After clicking on the link previously supplied, look on the right side of the page where it says "FACTORY AIR OPTIONS FOR YOUR CORVETTE". Click compressor upgrade kit. Below this is an addition that adds a multipath condenser.[/QU0TE]

There are kits for the Corvette. I used their whole system with parallel flow condensor and Sanden compressor. If you don't see the kits give them a call at the Florida location.

They don't show a kit for the '81 but the only difference is you have to make up two hose ends. Call Rick he helped me out.

http://www.classicautoair.com/Corvet..._Chevy_AC.html

Jud Chapin

Out of curiosity, what's wrong with the original system?

qwank

I parallel flow condenser might be the only upgrade you need